> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.platform.blackmountain.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Starting a Chat

> How to create and send messages in BlackMountain

## Creating a New Conversation

There are several ways to start a new chat in BlackMountain:

* Click the **New Chat** button at the top of the Chats sidebar.
* Use the quick create menu from the home page.
* Press <kbd>Ctrl</kbd>+<kbd>K</kbd> (or <kbd>Cmd</kbd>+<kbd>K</kbd> on Mac) to open search, then select **New Chat**.

## Sending Messages

Type your message in the input field at the bottom of the chat area and press the send button to submit it.

### Send Shortcuts

BlackMountain supports configurable keyboard shortcuts for sending messages:

| Shortcut        | Behaviour                 |
| --------------- | ------------------------- |
| **Enter**       | Send message (default)    |
| **Ctrl+Enter**  | Alternative send shortcut |
| **Shift+Enter** | Insert a new line         |

You can change your preferred send shortcut in [Settings](/more/settings).

## Choosing a Model

Before or during a conversation, select an AI model from the model selector dropdown above the input field. See [AI Models](/chat/models) for the full list of available models.

## Quick Create Menu

The home page provides a quick create area where you can immediately start typing a message. Select a model, optionally enable web search, and begin your conversation.